Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a controlled process for synthesizing recyclable, ultra-high-molar-mass cyclic polymers, without linear contaminants. These cyclic polymers maintain their structure under stress, are durable, and thermally stable. Additionally, they can be recycled back to monomers under mild conditions, making them ideal for sustainable, high-performance applications.
With growing interest in reducing petroleum-based plastic waste, industries are seeking alternatives that offer recyclability without sacrificing durability. Traditional cyclic polymers have shown promise but often require complex manufacturing conditions and difficulty in achieving high molar mass and purity, limiting their feasibility for commercial use. This new method overcomes these challenges, presenting a more straightforward way to produce high-performance, recyclable polymers.
Cyclic polymers have unique properties compared to linear polymers, due to their lack of chain ends. Their synthesis is complicated due to competing processes and side reactions that can occur, creating undesired linear polymer biproducts and uncontrolled cyclic polymer formation. A simple selective method for selective synthesis of linear or cyclic polymers has been developed and can be controlled by quenching the polymerization reaction with non-protic hexane (for linear) or protic methanol (for cyclic). This allows for the synthesis of cyclic polymers with the same degree on control, ease, and designability as has traditionally been available to linear polymers. In the synthesized example, cyclic polymers were produced that exhibit molar masses over 2 million Daltons and provides the strength, durability, and thermal stability necessary for heavy-duty applications. Additionally, they can be broken down into their original monomers under mild conditions.
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TRL: 3
US Provisional Patent
Eugene Chen
Li Zhou
Aly Hoeher
Aly.Hoeher@colostate.edu
970-491-7100